SGT Patrick R. McCaffrey
2LT Andre D. Tyson
Killed in Action June 22nd 2004
Official Media Releases; Photos Courtesy of Families - Posted Jun, 2004
The Washington National Guard regrets to announce the death of two members of the 81st Brigade Combat Team. 2LT Andre Tyson, from Long Beach CA, and SGT Patrick McCaffrey from Tracy CA, both age 34, were killed on Tuesday, 22 Jun 04, when their patrol was ambushed near Balad, Iraq.
Both Guardsmen were members of the California Army National Guard's Company A, 579th Engineer Battalion, assigned to the 81st Brigade.
2LT Tyson lived in Long Beach, CA and had worked for the Glendale Costco, before being mobilized with the 81st Brigade last fall. He is survived by his mother Renee, his father Lee, his four sisters and his brother.
SGT McCaffrey, from Tracy, CA was the manager of a collision repair company, prior to mobilization. He is survived by his wife, Sylvia, his two children, his mother Nadia and his father Bob.
Major General Lowenberg wishes to express his deepest regrets to the families and loved ones of these two Guardsmen, on behalf of the entire Washington Military Department. These brave Guardsmen gave their all for the freedom of the people of Iraq. Their sacrifice will always be remembered.
On behalf of himself and his Command Sergeant Major, Brigadier General Hilman has issued this statement: "The 81st Brigade Combat Team is saddened by the loss of two of their fellow soldiers. 1LT Demitrius Andre Tyson and SGT Patrick John McCaffrey Sr. were killed when their patrol was ambushed outside of Balad, Iraq. These soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice and will be remembered. Our hearts go out to the families and friends they leave behind, our prayers are with you."
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger's Statement
"Maria and I mourn the loss of these two courageous men who volunteered to serve their country and made the ultimate sacrifice for liberty. We send our deepest sympathies to the families of Patrick and Andre."
SGT McCaffrey, 34, and Lieutenant Tyson, 33, died on June 22 in Balad, Iraq, when enemy forces ambushed their ground patrol. The incident is under investigation. They were assigned to the Army National Guard's 579th Engineer Battalion, Petaluma, CA.
In honor of SGT McCaffrey and Second Lieutenant Tyson, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.